Survival instincts and survival intelligence are very different and should not be confused. One is pre-programmed, the other is pre-planned. Nature vs. nurture for lack of a better analogy.
Sure. They had to put themselves in a position for success.
But call it what you like? Patty did not want to be seen and yet she was seen. Tricked, deceived, unaware, whatever….
And yes, I agree wholeheartedly with Twist. Forest creatures do not equate a horse to a human often. She probably thought Elk were approaching the creek or maybe she was completely unaware at all.
🤷♂️